Zoo Idaho in Pocatello’s Ross Park was evacuated Sunday morning after authorities received a phoned-in bomb threat, making it one of more than 40 zoos targeted in a sweeping and still-unsolved series of threats affecting at least 11 states across the Western, Southern, and Midwestern United States.
Pocatello police responded to the threat, cleared the zoo of all visitors and staff, and conducted a thorough search of the grounds. No explosive device was found. Officers remained on scene for several hours Sunday and planned to return Monday for additional investigation. As of Sunday, no arrests had been made in connection with either the local threat or the broader pattern.
Part of a Nationwide Pattern
The Zoo Idaho threat is not an isolated incident. A similar wave of calls has swept through zoos in more than a dozen states over recent weeks, with every threat turning up empty — no explosives, no devices, no credible evidence of danger at any of the targeted facilities. The FBI has joined the investigation into the coordinated nature of the threats, though federal authorities have not publicly identified any suspects.
The pattern raises questions about who is behind the calls and why zoos specifically have been singled out. So far, authorities have offered no official motive or theory for public release. Despite the large number of institutions affected, the threats appear to follow a consistent format, suggesting a deliberate and organized effort rather than random copycat behavior.
Local Impact: Zoo Closed, Concert Cancelled
The evacuation disrupted what would have been a Sunday afternoon at one of Pocatello’s most popular family destinations. While Ross Park itself reopened Sunday afternoon, Zoo Idaho remained closed until further notice, with police indicating a possible reopening on Tuesday contingent on their clearance of the site.
The threat also cancelled a scheduled Pocatello Municipal Band concert at the Ross Park bandshell that had been set for Sunday. The concert has been rescheduled for 7 p.m. on July 5, giving residents another opportunity to enjoy the summer performance ahead of the holiday weekend.
Pocatello police asked the public to avoid Zoo Idaho during the investigation period to allow officers to work the scene without interference.
What Comes Next
With the FBI now involved alongside local law enforcement, investigators will continue working to identify the source of the threats targeting zoos nationwide. The coordination across so many states and institutions suggests federal resources will be essential to tracing the calls and building any potential case for prosecution.
For Zoo Idaho specifically, officials were expected to work with police through Monday to determine whether the facility could safely welcome visitors back as early as Tuesday. Families planning a visit are advised to check for updates before heading to Ross Park.
Anyone with information related to the threat at Zoo Idaho or the broader nationwide pattern is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the FBI. For the latest on Pocatello public safety developments, visit Idaho News.